THEORETICAL AND SCIENTIFIC EXPLORATION OF THE CONCEPT OF TRUST IN FOREIGN PSYCHOLOGY

Abstract

This article explores the scientific and theoretical study of the concept of trust in foreign and Russian social psychology. Trust is recognized as a fundamental factor influencing interpersonal communication, social cooperation, and organizational relations. Early research by scholars such as S. Jurgard and P. Laskou approached trust through self-disclosure, while later contributions by T. Yamagishi, M. Deutsch, and others emphasized trust’s critical role in long-term cooperation and social exchange. Theoretical perspectives from Luhmann, Giddens, Fukuyama, and Sztompka offer diverse insights into trust as a mechanism for reducing social complexity and fostering societal cohesion. Empirical studies highlight the importance of factors such as reputation, risk, and strategic interaction in the formation and maintenance of trust. The article also discusses the psychological dimensions of trust in therapeutic and counseling contexts, underscoring its significance in personality development and social functioning. Overall, the research reviewed affirms trust as a dynamic, context-dependent construct vital for social cohesion and effective interpersonal relations.